Supurb articles
It’s been a while since I read two superb articles in the North Central Review. I am referring to Ian Blyth’s article “Just my Opinion” – Bulldozing landowners’ rights” and the letter from Mayor Cr. John Dougall. The longer this dictatorial Labor Government is in power in Victoria, the longer they will continue to put their boots on the necks of Victorian taxpayers and farmers.
There is no such thing as “consultation” in Victoria where this Government is concerned. Oh yes, they may well meet with their electorate, but do they listen? The answer is a resounding NO. The information from the voters goes in one ear and out the other. This new Parliamentary “law”, aided and abetted by the Greens, Animal Justice Party and Cannabis Party, that takes away the farmers’ rights, is just another step in the dictatorial rule being imposed on Victoria voters. This is just an extension of the COVID years of dictatorship. Never forget or forgive the COVID years, Victoria.
Instead of desecrating farmland, why not put the proposed transmission lines through a Bendigo property, or a Brunswick property or even a Broadford property? I’m sure the Attorney General wouldn’t mind if these transmission lines were going through her property, given that she supports renewables, would you, Jaclyn?
I have to say what a superb letter from the Mitchell Shire Mayor. It has been a virtual lifetime since I, the people of Wallan and Beveridge North, have seen any support from their Mayor. The majority of previous Mayors were Labor Party puppets from the North Ward.
Can Mayor Dougall tell those people in Wallan, Beveridge North and the rest of the Shire who it was that put the Wallan quarry into the 2021 Future Urban Structure Plan, because it wasn’t in the original 2019 Structure Plan? Was there any external influence put on any Council employee to insert this quarry into the 2021 Future Plan?
I have no doubt, Mayor Dougall, that like myself, you are a great believer in honesty, openness and accountability, unlike a select few in the Shire and would be only too happy to reveal how the quarry got to be in the 2021 Future Plan. We all look forward to your response.
Brian Mawhinney
Traralgon
Difference between city and country clear to see
We appreciate your coverage in last week’s article “Farmers challenge emergency Levy”.
You have highlighted some key concerns facing rural and farming communities. When you have 120 people at a community meeting on a cold winter’s night, many travelling a considerable distance you know there is significant disquiet in the broader community.
A broad range of topics and community feedback was provided on the night, that will shape our agenda into the future. While our focus is on rural and farming communities, a key priority is addressing the broader divide between Rural and Regional communities and Metropolitan Melbourne.
For example, disproportionate infrastructure funding between Rural and Metro communities, reflected in the condition of roads, health services and other infrastructure and employment problems.
Planning at all levels requires significant attention. We see the residential growth in our towns with little thought and planning in providing jobs and long term employment. In Seymour for example, Council has been talking about the Hilldene Industrial Park for five years, Businesses have shown significant interest but there appears limited action on the ground.
The same applies to a host of towns across Central Victoria. From basic planning, like multiple access and egress points for subdivisions, to acknowledgement that one size does not fit all, there are difference between Metro and Regional planning needs.
We’re pleased to be growing our membership which amplifies our voice and encourage your readers to join via our website. Membership is fast and free and helps us have greater impact in representing communities across North Central Victoria.
Bill Chisholm
President, Protect our Farms Incorporated